Medical students in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services: identifying the factors involved in successful placements for staff and students

Background: To identify the facilitators and barriers to positive medical student placements at Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs). Materials and Methods: A total of 15 focused interviews were conducted with medical students from Victorian universities and staff from two Victorian ACCHSs. Staff and students were asked about their expectations of students’ placements; the learning outcomes for students; the structural elements that have an influence on student placements; and the overall benefits and challenges of placements within these settings. This data was then thematically analysed. Results: The study found that student placements in ACCHSs were of benefit to both the student and the organisation. However, areas for improvement were identified, including avenues for administrative assistance from universities in managing placements and clarifying expectations with regard to learning objectives. Overall, it was the opinion of participants that placements in this setting should be encouraged as a means of medical and cultural education. Conclusion: The study contributes to building an understanding of the elements that lead to good practice in student placement design, and developing relationships between medical schools and ACCHSs. The study provides grounding for further research into the development of a framework for assisting successful student placements in the ACCHS setting